$23K Fine Set in ‘Preventable Tragedy’

Federal authorities are holding a Pennsylvania paving contractor liable for the death of a employee who was killed while inspecting the inside of a tank on an industrial vacuum truck in October.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued citations for 17 safety violations, nine of them serious, to K. Dolan Construction Corp., of Blairsville, PA. Proposed fines total $23,800.

The death of Edward Ulicne, 45, of Latrobe, PA, was "a terrible, preventable tragedy," said Christopher Robinson, director of OSHA's Pittsburgh-area office.

K. Dolan Construction Corp.

K. Dolan Construction Corp. was established in February 2013 when the owner bought four asphalt companies. A worker was killed on the job in October.

"Employers must ensure that workers are protected from hazards and that procedures are in place to prevent senseless injury or death."

Pinned by Equipment

Ulicne, a laborer, and a foreman were inspecting the tank on Oct. 18. Using the hydraulic controls to the rear door of the tank, the foreman closed the rear door, pinning Ulicne between the door and the frame of the tank.

Ulicne died from his injuries on Oct. 22. His employer failed to report his death, said OSHA.